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When you apply for a credit card, you can usually expect a response within 60 seconds. However, if you still haven’t heard back from the provider, it might be time to take things into your own hands. It’s not a difficult process, but to make things even easier, we’ve offered up some tips on how to best approach the situation.
How long does it take for my credit card application to be approved?
On average 1-2 weeks (if not instant approval)
Although you may be given instant approval or conditional approval, credit card providers can take between one to two weeks to review an application. If you’re an existing member of the bank, the process may be quicker as they already have some of your verified information in their systems and are better aware of your financial picture.
The general rule is to provide all of the required information when you apply, as this will generally speed up the approval process. In addition, be absolutely certain that you meet all of the eligibility requirements for the card before applying.
How can I check on my application?
If you haven’t received a response regarding your credit card application, you can contact your provider using the phone number listed below.
Reasons why your application is taking longer than expected
If your credit card application is taking longer than usual to process, it could be due to one of the following reasons:
The provider thinks that certain information on your application may be insufficient, incorrect or inconsistent, and may require additional information or changes.
The provider has spotted marks on your credit file that it wishes to analyze further or discuss with you.
The provider has to deal with a large number of applications and hasn’t reached yours yet.
The provider has misplaced your application.
Resolving the matter is often simple, and can sometimes take no more than a single phone call. Monitor your calls, inbox and mailbox in case the provider is trying to get in touch with you – but know that calling them first is always the quicker option.
What responses can I expect when applying for a card?
Instant approval
With online applications, approval can be verified within 60 seconds. While lending criteria varies between different credit card providers, they will usually be looking to verify your identity and check your credit score. By providing all the required information and keeping a good credit history, you can look forward to instant approval.
Referral
If your credit card application is under referral, the card provider typically requires more time to carry out further assessments before giving you a conclusive answer.
Conditional approval
Getting conditional approval essentially means that the credit card provider is buying time to verify your details before granting approval. In such a scenario, you might have to provide personal identification documents or paycheques by visiting a branch office or sending them via fax. Complete approval only takes effect after you’ve provided the additional information.
Application not approved
The reason behind a provider not approving your application could be that you haven’t met the eligibility criteria for the credit card. Factors could include insufficient income, poor creditworthiness and unstable employment. If you’ve been rejected, don’t apply for another credit card straight away. Instead, either request a copy of your credit report to make sure everything’s in order or start comparing other cards to apply for in a few months – making sure you’re paying attention to the eligibility requirements.
Common mistakes to avoid when awaiting the status of your credit card application
Lodging multiple credit card applications in a short period of time. You may be tempted to apply for another credit card while you’re waiting for a response, but multiple simultaneous applications will have a negative impact on your credit file.
Your credit report has errors on it. If your application was rejected and you’re unsure why, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements and order a copy of your credit score to make sure you haven’t fallen victim to fraud or mistakes on your file. If you find a genuine error on the report, contact the credit card provider and the credit bureau (Equifax or TransUnion) to have it corrected.
Watch out for customer service delays. It could take days or even weeks for a bank to respond to an email enquiry and it’s common to expect wait times when you’re contacting the customer service phone line. Avoid calling early in the morning, at lunch time or after 5pm when they’re likely to be inundated with calls.
Applying for a credit card is one thing, but receiving it is quite another. You may have to wait a considerable period for it, which is why we recommend you apply in advance and always stay on top of your application by calling your provider.
Compare credit cards
Looking to apply for a credit card? Compare options below to find the right one for you.
Frequently asked questions
Factors that can adversely affect your application include poor creditworthiness, recent bankruptcy, no credit history, mistakes on your credit file, low income, recent change in employment, no employment, fluctuating income, too much existing debt and too many credit enquiries.
Yes, it can. Credit card providers use different criteria to decide credit limits, and while you might not qualify for a higher limit, you could qualify for a lower limit. Be realistic when determining your credit limit.
If you notice a mistake on your credit file, you should report it to the credit card provider in question immediately, and the provider should then rectify the mistake by contacting the credit bureau in question. Make sure you send a copy of the dispute to both Equifax and TransUnion since they maintain separate records.
Incomplete applications have a poor chance of success, and if you submit an incomplete application, the provider might take some time to seek additional information – if it does so at all. If there’s anything in the application you don’t understand, seek clarification from the provider and then proceed.
Adrienne Fuller is the former head of publishing at Finder US. With a decade of experience creating guides in finance and education, she aimed to deliver the accurate and transparent information she wished she had when she made some of life's important financial decisions. Adrienne has a BA from Colorado College and loves to hike with her two Catahoula dogs.
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Instant approval
Instant approval
